Contestani facts for kids

The Contestani were an ancient people who lived in the Iberian Peninsula (modern-day Spain and Portugal) a long time ago, even before the Romans arrived. They were part of a group called the Iberians. People think they spoke the Iberian language.

The Iberian Peninsula in the 3rd century BC, showing where the Contestani lived.

Where They Lived

The Contestani lived in a region that is now part of southeastern Spain. This area includes parts of the Albacete Province, the eastern Region of Murcia, and the southern Valencian Community. Their land was near the Júcar River.

Many important towns were in their territory. These included Cartago Nova (which is now Cartagena), Setabi (today's Xàtiva), and Lucentum (near Alicante). Other towns were Ilici (Elche) and Alonis (Villajoyosa). The Contestani even made their own coins in Setabi.

Sculptures found in the ancient Iberian village of Cerro de los Santos.

Archaeological Sites

We learn about the Contestani from places where they used to live. These are called archaeological sites. Two very important sites are Tolmo de Minateda hill, near Hellín, and La Bastida de les Alcusses, near Mogente. These sites help us understand how the Contestani lived long ago.

Images for kids

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  Eastern side of Tolmo de Minateda hill near Hellín.

See also

• Iberians
• Pre-Roman peoples of the Iberian Peninsula
• Lucentum
• Lady of Elche
• Treasure of Villena
• Tolmo de Minateda
• La Bastida de les Alcusses
• In Spanish: Contestanos para niños